What do you think of Friday evening and this popular jubilation that invaded the Saint-Symphorien stadium, at the final whistle, after the victory over Bastia (3-2)?
Julien FRANCOIS “With such fervor, it’s always intense moments. The team did the job and the players, like the public, celebrated as if this accession had been acquired… But we must not forget the stoppage of the match in Bordeaux which could have disturbed this collective joy. For the Disciplinary Committee, it’s going to be a real headache, even if I don’t see how, at this stage of the season, it could ask to replay this Bordeaux-Rodez meeting…”
Did this success remind you of the 2006-2007 season, at the end of which you too signed the club’s return to the French top flight?
“A rise in Ligue 1, it is not forgotten. In my time, the scenario was not the same. We had acquired this accession four games before the end of the championship and, in addition, outside, on the ground of Amiens. The emotional impact is not the same as this year, where everything was decided at the last meeting, which is moreover at home. But I must admit that, on the players’ side, we quickly left Picardy to celebrate the title in a nightclub in Metz (laughs). Before communing with the public on the last day of the championship, against Gueugnon. »
Since your time, the club has made heavy investments to modernize. In your opinion, will he finally be able to stay in L1 for a long time?
“A very efficient training centre, a new training centre, a new stand, etc. Clearly, FC Metz has all the standings of a Ligue 1 club. Next year, in a championship reduced to 18 teams, TV rights will be greater. With increased financial resources and good anticipation in recruitment, the club will have more leeway to last at the highest level. »
It is often said that the mark of a great club is to maintain the link with its former players. Is this the case at FC Metz?
“Yes, transmission is important. I am part of the veteran team of former FC Metz, we have access to the stadium, President Serin recently attended our meal… Big names like Nico Braun or Robert Pirès do not forget the club. Maintaining this heritage is a very good thing. »
Can FC Thionville-Lusitanos, which you train with Stéphane Borbiconi, benefit from your connection with FC Metz?
“During this season, we have already faced FC Metz in friendly opposition during the week. Whether with Sylvain [Marchal, entraîneur de la réserve du FC Metz] or Lawrence [Agouazi, en charge des U17], two friends, the exchanges are direct. Today, in Thionville, we are looking for profiles of players not selected in training centers. On April 30, FC Metz gives us the list of these often revengeful and very well trained elements. »
Exactly, are recruits from the neighboring club in your sights?
“(laughs) I haven’t contacted anyone this year. »
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